Why Do My Fingers Feel Cut After Playing Guitar?

Many guitarists have experienced that uncomfortable sensation of their fingers feeling cut or sore after playing their instrument. This pain can range from minor discomfort to significant discomfort, and it can happen for various reasons. In this article, we will explore several common causes and offer practical solutions to alleviate the discomfort. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, understanding these factors can help you improve your practice sessions and overall enjoyment of playing the guitar.

Over-Exertion and Fretting Hand Technique

Spiro brought up an interesting point regarding fretting hand technique. Excessive pressure or what is sometimes referred to as a death grip can cause significant discomfort. Many beginners unknowingly apply too much pressure on their strings, leading to finger pain. To test your technique, try the exercise Spiro mentioned: place one finger per fret on the 6th string and move each one individually while keeping the others in place. If you find it difficult to move your fingers without the others coming off, you might be using too much force.

String Action and Guitar Setup

The action of the guitar (the height of the strings above the fretboard) can significantly impact your playing comfort. As Spiro’s response suggests, changing string gauge can alter the action and neck relief. Lighter strings might make the guitar easier to play, while heavier strings can increase the action and make it more challenging, potentially causing more finger pain.

Find the right balance in your setup. A well-adjusted guitar will have the correct neck relief and string height. Test the action by placing a finger on the 6th string at the 17th fret and holding another finger at the 1st fret. The space between the 9th fret and the string should be no more than the thickness of a medium pick. Also, check the string height at the first fret with no pressure—align this to be about the thickness of a light pick.

Increased Practice Intervals

Spiro’s observation about changes in practice intervals is also important. If you suddenly increase the amount of time you spend playing, your technique could break down slightly, leading to more forceful pressing on the strings. Gradually increasing your practice time can help reduce the strain on your fingers.

Environmental and Health Factors

Other factors that can contribute to your fingers feeling cut include environmental changes and personal health. For instance, washing your hands or showering more frequently can temporarily soften your skin, reducing the protective effect of calluses. Additionally, physical and emotional stress can make you use more force than usual without you even being aware of it.

Medical Considerations

In rare cases, persistent finger pain could be an indicator of underlying medical issues, such as a viral infection. While this should be a last resort, it’s essential to consider all possibilities.

Practical Solutions

To mitigate finger pain, try these practical solutions:

Practice in moderation and gradually increase your practice time. Check and adjust your guitar’s setup to ensure proper string height and relief. Use a death grip exercise to improve your fretting technique. Avoid washing your hands or showering directly before playing to keep your skin in a more stable condition. Manage your stress levels to prevent over-exertion when playing.

By understanding and addressing these common causes, you can significantly reduce finger pain and enjoy playing the guitar more comfortably.